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Updated Version of Chemical Response Tool, CAFE 1.2, Released


JUNE 2, 2016 -- NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration (OR&R) recently released an updated version of the Chemical Aquatic Fate and Effects (CAFE) database, a chemical response tool. CAFE version 1.2 now has greater capabilities for aiding responders in their assessment of the environmental effects of chemical or oil spills.

Data in CAFE are presented in two modules, which provide complementary information to pollution responders. The Fate module provides information about chemical structure and physical properties, environmental fate, and analytical methods and uses for chemicals. The Toxicity (Effects) module lets you view toxicity data for chemicals, oils, dispersants, and dispersant-oil mixtures. You can also view reports that estimate risk for short exposure durations (1, 2, 4, or 8 hours), or add your own toxicity data to CAFE.

In this new version of CAFE, the Effects module was updated with the ECOTOX data for 2015, and the Fate model was updated with new EPI Suite data. The short-exposure risk estimate reports were updated to include a total of 46 chemicals. Users who add their own data to CAFE can now import or export that data. Finally, the CAFE team created five instructional videos to help users who are new to CAFE.

The CAFE 1.2 database is available for download on the OR&R website. OR&R has created a number of resources to help you use this tool. In addition, you can learn more about the development of CAFE and its application for use in spill response in a recently published paper in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.

For more information, contact Jim Farr or Valerie Chu.

Go back to OR&R Weekly Report.

Last updated Tuesday, November 8, 2022 1:49pm PST